2K Games has secured Ben Brinkman from Respawn Entertainment to direct the studio crew at 31st Union, which is currently working on the anticipated over-the-shoulder roguelike extraction-shooter known as Project Ethos.
Management Change Follows Lukewarm Reception
Brinkman steps into the role of studio head at the development studio following the departure of former leader the ex-Sledgehammer Games executive, who was reportedly let go due to Project Ethos' lackluster unveiling last autumn.
On Wednesday, 2K president a key figure updated team members about this decision through an internal memo, which stressed that playtesting had shown the necessity for a more defined direction.
The president stated that the developers is now refining Project Ethos with a refreshed approach, aiming to better meet gamer demands.
A Pattern of Strategic Hires
This announcement echoes a similar move taken by 2K Games in August, when they brought on an industry veteran from the Diablo team to contribute to the beloved franchise studio Cloud Chamber.
Here is the entire text from Ismailer's communication:
Hello Everyone—
I know you all just completed your gathering - I hope you’re as excited as I am with the good news. Last time I shared you all a message, I mentioned the following: “I believe in this group. You all are some of the most driven and talented creators we have had the chance to work with - and we’re excited for that relationship to persist.”
Given your hard work and adaptability, especially over the past twelve months, you repeatedly show that.
The player input from last fall’s the game playtest was enlightening. It confirmed the promise of a action-packed game but indicated we still had work to do. It highlighted the requirement for a sharper identity.
The progress is encouraging to see how far you’ve advanced. You took the criticism to heart and reimagined Project ETHOS with a refreshed goal - one that’s poised to deliver on its potential to our fans.
The trust in Project ETHOS grows every day. To further the incredible development you’ve made, It is a pleasure to introduce Ben Brinkman as the latest Studio Head of the team. After a period of talks, Ben officially joins us on Monday, October 20.
His management and expertise in the competitive gaming genre is extensive, having spent the recent years developing and overseeing some of the most popular titles in the industry, such as Call of Duty: Black Ops, and lately, Apex Legends.
Please join me in greeting Ben in the coming days. We are all excited to persist observing the progress of Project ETHOS in the time to ahead.
David
Background of the Incoming Head
Brinkman currently serves in the position of executive producer and head of production at Respawn Entertainment for Apex Legends. He earlier worked at major gaming companies in multiple production roles on the Call of Duty games, and, prior to that, had stints at 2K and Electronic Arts.
Game Details and Concept
Project Ethos was revealed in last year alongside a community playtest. At the time, 31st Union described the title as a "no-cost, 3rd-person action-packed experience and an exciting step forward on the category."
"Create your ideal gameplay session—or face defeat—in this engaging over-the-shoulder adventure! Customize your character in live gameplay to suit your personal playstyle," the game's pitch explains. "Face the opponents with unique powers, stakes, and obstacles that evolve every match. Do you withdraw carefully with your collected items? Or aim high, put it on the line, and hope your group can secure victory? The option is in your hands."
The game has not yet received an confirmed release date or consoles, but enthusiasts can anticipate more updates as creation progresses.
